Automatic system-based animal training device

ABSTRACT

An automated animal-training system is provided, which includes an enclosure device for the animal, an arrangement for adjustably fixing the location of the animal within the enclosure device, and an actuation mechanism for moving the automated animal-training system. In order to simulate real racing situations for the animals, the arrangement for adjustably fixing the location of the animal within the enclosure device is controlled by one or more motors movable on sliding rails. Furthermore, a mechanism is provided for suspending the animal in the training device in case the animal trips.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional application of U.S. application Ser.No. 10/475,046, filed Jul. 2, 2004, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,089,720 B2 whichis a 35 U.S.C. § 371 national phase application of PCT/TR02/00016, filedApr. 17, 2002, and claims priority to Turkish Patent Application Number2001/01003, filed Apr. 17, 2001; Turkish Patent Application Number2001/01994, filed Jul. 11, 2001; Turkish Patent Application Number2001/03372, filed Nov. 26, 2001; and Turkish Patent Application Number2002/00639 filed Mar. 11, 2002, the entire disclosures of which arehereby incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to an automatic animal training system forphysical performance improvement and simulation means for the animalsparticipating in racing.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Among the features affecting the performances of racehorses, camels andsimilar animals throughout their active life are taken intoconsideration, it is scientifically accepted that origin, nutrition,caring, training factors have importance with respect to other factors.The origin of animals is a distinctive feature, since it is determinedby nature.

Unlike the origin feature, the other of the above-mentioned factors canbe exploited by various methods, programs and devices enabling exclusivemanner of approach to the animals.

Published international application WO 01/97606 disclosing completeautomatic system-based training system for animals, especially thoseparticipating in races, describes a training device, the lateral andrear sides of which are surrounded by a flexible material and the frontside of which is covered by a locking mechanism, and a tractor is placedin front or rear side of the training device.

In this previous application WO 01/97606, it has been stated that thetraining device is guided by wheels embodied on the lateral sides of thedevice in such a way that the wheels are disposed in rails and thedevice is moved accordingly, or alternatively, the device is guided bysome means attached to a line which is located on upper side of thedevice.

In addition to these features, the previous application WO 01/97606discloses orientation pattern of the training devices, namely thesedevices can be employed individually around racecourses, oralternatively these devices can be employed as a group.

The previous application WO 01/97606 presents a unique approach tocomplete automatic-based animal training system and brings about manyadvantages . The present animal training processes are based on humanintervention, in other words animal training programs involvehuman-controlled manner. This human-controlled training approach leadsthe animals to become physically disabled during the training process.The annual rate of the horses becoming disabled is so huge thatapproximately 90% colts which would potentially become racehorse neverbecome racehorses.

The reason behind the high injury rate of the race animals is mainly dueto lack of harmony between the trainer and the animal. During thetraining the animal is forced to behave in the manner that trainersdemand, and this lack of harmony leads to the animal being physicallydisabled.

Furthermore, taking into consideration human intervention for thetraining of animals participating in long-distance races, particularlythose encountered in Arabic countries, many disadvantages areconfronted. This is indeed the case when long-distance and accordinglylong-term races are of concern, and animal injury problem arises sincethe eccentrical position of the rider on the animal leads to the loss ofanimal stability during the training or race time.

Although some other training facilities are known from the state of theart, e.g., published U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,266,508 and 4,619,222, none ofthese patents suggests a complete automatic training system forfacilitating concrete simulation with respect to the racing conditions.

For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,266,508 discloses a frame in which animalsare introduced. This frame is pulled by a tractor means (self-poweredvehicle) only from the front side of the frame and wheels are placed atthe rear side of the frame.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,266,508 is the first proposal serving an animalsurrounded training device and bears some significant advantages.Nevertheless, pulling the frame from only the front side by a vehicle,which is non-integrated to the frame, presents considerabledisadvantages. One disadvantage results from the placement of thevehicle in the front side of the frame, since animals become easilyfrightened by the existence of such a vehicle in front of runningdirection of the animals. This would lead to insufficient trainingpractice of the animals accordingly. Besides, since the tractor means(vehicle) is not connected to the frame directly, in other words thewheels are connected to the frame by virtue of supplementary axles,changing the direction of the frame would be delayed due to inaccuratedirection control mechanism. These direction-changing delays would againlead to insufficient training practice of the animals.

As for U.S. Pat. No. 4,619,222, this patent discloses mobile meansconnected from one end to the head of the animal and from other end tosome guiding means by virtue of wheels. As it is seen from U.S. Pat. No.4,619,222, neither confining means surrounding the animal to be trainednor tractor means are employed in this system. In other words, in caseof irritation, it is obvious that the animal can hurt itself due to lackof confining means.

Other animal training facilities are those so-called manege, runningbands or tracks. These facilities are actually utilized for temperinganimals, particularly horses, and including abstract embodiments i.e.real race conditions are not met due to lack of concrete simulators inthese facilities.

In addition to training process for animals, the previous application WO01/97606 has also suggested monitoring means for evaluatingphysiological characteristics in real-time performance of the animalsbeing trained. Data acquired from these monitoring means are evaluatedin a unit connected to the training device.

With the suggested technical features, the previous application WO01/97606 aimed to minimize human intervention in animal trainingprocesses.

However, the features suggested in the previous application WO 01/97606have some deficiencies, and the instant invention is provided forovercoming these deficiencies.

For example, in the previous application WO 01/97606 the lockingmechanism placed front side of the training device serves to confine thehorse in the device, however at the same time the locking mechanismfalls outside of the view angle of the horse. This deficiency leads thehorse to lift its head upwards and lower its head downwardssimultaneously during training, consequently decreasing performance ofthe animal.

Another deficiency experienced during training is referred toconstructional disadvantage of the training device. During training, thehorse may become nervous and kick the lateral sides of the device or thelegs may go outside of the device. As a result the horse may hurt itslegs.

Another deficiency as to the training device in the previous applicationWO 01/97606 is the lack of simulation means with respect to racingconditions. Namely, the deficiency is the lack of mass of the jockey orthe trainer during training as encountered in real case.

Another deficiency is associated with the securing means for the animalsbeing trained. Basically, disabling of the horse in the device would notbe prevented when an external effect takes place. For example, there isno mechanical component securing the animal in case of tottering orfalling down during training.

In the previous application WO 01/97606, “guiding” of the device bymeans of wheels from lateral sides thereof, and also “guiding” thedevice from the upper side thereof through the racecourse, may lead tonotion that the actuation means of the devices are limited. In the eventof individual or multiple utilization of the training devices, it isobvious that some alternative actuation means are strictly required.

Another important deficiency of the previous application WO 01/97606 islack of a pre-training facilities. This is significant, since most ofthe time the animal which will be subjected to an automatic-basedtraining program by employing a device covered by confinement means willresist this program.

Furthermore, the prior art fails to disclose an embodiment rendering asmooth running ground for the animals. This aspect should be taken intoconsideration since the ground of racecourse is generally coated bysand.

In the previous application WO 01/97606 it has been disclosed manyembodiments for achieving complete automatic animal training facility.However, since in real-time races the animals are managed by a human,simulation means have been lacking in the previous application WO01/97606. Simulation means must be provided in the automatic trainingfacility for a smooth transition between the training program andreal-time racing conditions. Particularly, in the previous applicationWO 01/97606, lack of rider's commands to the animal does not reflect thereal-time racing conditions .

In real-time racing conditions, bit and bridle should be simultaneouslyemployed by the rider for enabling a complete control of the animal sothat the race is won by the animal. Capability of controlling the animalis one of the determining aspects for achieving the best results.

Another feature that should be controlled during racing is the saddle,indeed the failure of the rider to sit properly on the animal duringrace would disturb the animal and present an obstacle for winning therace.

Furthermore, another deficiency that has not been disclosed by theprevious application WO 01/97606 is the inability to simulatedisplacement of the lateral coverages. This deficiency would cause theinability of adjusting the position of the animal in the training deviceand result in the incapacity of the animal for the real-time adaptation.

The object of the present invention is to provide a pre-trainingfacility for orientation of racehorses or similar animals being trainedby an automatic training system.

Another object of the present application is to provide alternativemeans for moving automatic training devices.

Further object of the present application is to provide trainingstabilization of racehorses or similar animals during training and toprovide simulation means with respect to real-time racing conditions.

Another object of the present application is to provide monitoring ofperformances of the animals by real-time evaluation of bio-mechanicaland physiological features of the animals.

Yet another object of the present application is to provide a completeadaptation of the animal to the racing conditions.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an integratedanimal training device, particularly integration of coveragessurrounding the animal with tractor means.

SUMMARY

The instant invention provides: a pre-training unit for an automatictraining facility for animals, the automatic training device,alternative embodiments for actuating the automatic training device, andintegrated animal training device, i.e., integration of coveragessurrounding the animal and control unit comprising self-powered motorand direction control means.

The components comprising the pre-training unit are; convex structuresarranged predetermined spaces with respect to each other around arunning track, and these convex structures are fixed to the ground;static structures comprising rails around the running track and wheelsdisposed in these rails; and dynamic structures moving by the animalsubjected to pre-training program. Furthermore, in order to enhance theextent of adaptation of the animal to the essential automatic trainingprogram, the animal is in interaction with the rails placed on topsection of the convex structures by connection means placed on thebreast section of the animal body.

The animal, subjected to pre-training program, is connected from threedistinct locations on the body to the static structures by virtue ofattachment means. These attachment means have wheels at the end incontact with the static structures.

In the process of pre-training, the animal is confined in a device, thelateral and rear sides of which are surrounded and similar to the deviceutilized in the training program. This device utilized for pre-trainingpurpose is able to move in the static structures.

The animal subjected to pre-training process is fastened to the staticstructures via belts, cordons etc., from bit at the mouth of the animal,bridle at the head of the animal, and saddle at the upper region of theanimal. By employing such pre-training facility, the animal iscompletely adapted to the automatic training process.

In the present application, some arrangements are embodied forstabilizing the location and increasing safety conditions of the animalin the training device. The animal is connected to the device from fourdistinct region of the body by belts, cordons etc. These regions are:the bit at the mouth region, bridle at the head region, the chest bandat the chest region, and saddle at the upper region of the animal. Theseconnection means are on the other hand connected to the training deviceby spring means for increasing flexibility thereof. The animal in thetraining device is able to make relative displacements with respect tothe device. Furthermore, a mechanism is provided for suspending theanimal in the device in case the animal totters or disconnects thecontact of legs of the animal. For providing simulation conditions,various mass elements can be attached to the saddle, and the masscorresponding to the jockey is balanced during training.

The saddle is located on the upper side of the animal by virtue of adrum and motor mechanism, which mechanism includes a locking means foradjusting the vertical position of the saddle.

Another feature of the present invention is an alternativemechanical-based actuation mechanism for moving the training devices.According to this actuation mechanism, one or plurality of gears andplatforms movable by these gears throughout the training racecourse areembodied.

For achieving an adaptation of the animal to the real-time racingconditions, some components have been embodied in the training device.The above-mentioned bit, bridle and chest band connection means arecontrolled by motors movable on sliding rails. The motors are actuatedby an electronic unit so that optionally these connection means arepulled and released for controlling the animal. Furthermore, the saddlepositioned on the animal is capable of rotating and translating in thethree dimensional space. In other words, the saddle has six degrees offreedom.

Pulling and releasing, i.e. displacement, of the bit, bridle and chestband connection means are adjusted by the electronic control unit whichis coded according to the training or race course distance so that, likethe real-time racing conditions, the animal is stimulated in accordancewith the certain distances with respect to the training course.

Furthermore, the lateral coverages of the training device are capable ofmoving so that the animal in the training device is positioned incertain locations.

Since the present invention provides a complete system for training ofanimals, especially the horses, a laboratory for monitoring the onlineperformances of the animals during training program and optionally movedwith the training device is embodied. In this laboratory, the followingperformance parameters may be monitored online:

-   -   Measuring the heart functions of the animal by EKG (electro        cardiograph).    -   Taking blood samples for identifying physical conditions of the        animal and for identifying potential diseases that may adversely        affect the animal. Consequently, the following items can be        deduced from the blood sample; blood cell (eritrosit), total        protein, water percentage (dehydration), lactic acid, hemoglobin        value, enzyme value, leucocyte value etc. can be determined.    -   Identifying the conditions of the internal organs of the animal        such as internal side of nose, stomach, etc., by endoscopic        means for determining performance conditions of the animal.    -   Identifying other parameters such as CO₂ value of the breath,        respiration number per unit of time, body temperature, and data        of urological system.    -   Identifying dynamic analysis of bones of the animal by virtue of        radioscopic means.    -   Measuring strains of muscles of the animal.

During training, EKG measurement is performed via electrodes placed onparticular body regions of the animal, and these measured values can beprinted out or can be saved in a computer data carrier for laterretrieval. The computer can be located in the mobile laboratory or in adifferent location other than the mobile laboratory.

During training, so as to take blood samples and analyze theabove-mentioned parameters, an injection is placed on the animal. Bydoing so, various blood-related parameters are analyzed and theresultant data can be saved in a computer data carrier. The computer canbe located in the mobile laboratory or in a different location otherthan the mobile laboratory.

As for the endoscopic facilities, since online measurement ofendoscopy-related parameters can not be achieved, the measurementthereof is made immediately after the training by means of endoscopicmeans placed in the mobile laboratory. Resultant data of the endoscopicmeans can be saved in a computer data carrier. The computer can belocated in the mobile laboratory or in a different location other thanthe mobile laboratory.

Respiration sequence, CO₂ value are determined by detecting means placedin front of the nose region of the animal, and the measured values arecontrolled by monitorization means online. Furthermore, resultant dataof the these measurements can be saved in a computer data carrier. Thecomputer can be located in the mobile laboratory or in a differentlocation other than the mobile laboratory.

Body temperature measurement is performed by means of thermometerlocated at several regions of the body of animal. Resultant data of thetemperature measurement can be saved in a computer data carrier. Thecomputer can be located in the mobile laboratory or in a differentlocation other than the mobile laboratory.

Radioscopic measurements are performed by various cameras placed inseveral locations of the training device. Resultant data of theradioscopic means can be saved in a computer data carrier. The computercan be located in the mobile laboratory or in a different location otherthan the mobile laboratory.

In addition to the above-mentioned parameters, during training, speed ofthe animal can be determined via a tacometer or a similar means.Resultant data of speed measurement can be saved in a computer datacarrier. The computer can be located in the mobile laboratory or in adifferent location other than the mobile laboratory.

For the integrated animal training device comprising lateral and rearcoverages surrounding the animal with control unit comprisingself-powered motor and device direction control means, wheels are placedat the lower side of the lateral coverages. Furthermore, control unitintegrated with the coverages are carried by another group of wheels.

Integrated animal training device is directed by virtue of the wheelsplaced at lower side of the lateral coverages. These wheels areconnected to transmission pivots which are connected to furthertransmission means. These transmission means are actuated by hydraulicprovided by self-powered motor placed in the control unit 10 at the rearregion of the integrated animal training device.

For securing the location of the animal in the training device aconfinement means is positioned at the lateral coverages of the trainingdevice.

An alternative integrated animal training device is also proposed in thescope of the present invention. In this alternative structure, themechanism directing the front wheels includes mechanical componentsalongside the lateral coverages but not alongside the convex structures.Furthermore, some covering means comprising air bags are placed in thetraining device so that the animal can be held at a desired location inthe device.

Another alternative embodiment includes connection means providingconnection of the animal to the training device. In this alternativeembodiment, instead of complete mechanical-based connection means, amagnetic-based connection is proposed. A magnet, e.g., anelectro-magnet, is disposed in the lateral coverages and a ring meansconnected from one end to the saddle and associated from other end withthe electro-magnet is controlled through magnetic force originated bythe electro-magnet.

Furthermore, another embodiment for the animal training device includesmovable convex structures. The legs associated with the lateralcoverages are capable of being displaced in housings formed in thelateral coverages.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates the animal connection means to the training deviceand convex structures perpendicular to the ground in accordance with thepresent invention.

FIG. 2A illustrates the pre-training facility in accordance with thepresent invention.

FIG. 2B illustrates the major components for alternative structures usedfor pre-training facility in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 3 illustrates the actuation mechanism of the training devices inaccordance with the present invention.

FIG. 4A illustrates the detailed view of mobile platform for thetraining devices in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 4B illustrates the chain mechanism for actuating multiple trainingdevices in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 5 illustrates the actuation mechanism of the training devices atthe lateral sides thereof in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 6 illustrates the actuation mechanism of the training devices atupper side thereof in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 7 illustrates the movable coverage and front blockage element forthe training devices in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 8 illustrates the air-bags for fixing the location of the animal inthe training device in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the closed-form training device withlaboratory unit in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 10 illustrates the inner components of the closed-form trainingdevice with laboratory unit in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 11 illustrates electronic displacement-controlled connection meansin accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 12A illustrates saddle mechanism with 6 degree of freedom inaccordance with the present invention.

FIG. 12B illustrates the top view of the saddle in accordance with thepresent invention.

FIG. 13 illustrates lateral coverages of the training device inaccordance with the present invention.

FIG. 14 illustrates the lateral coverages, one within the other, inaccordance with the present invention.

FIG. 15 illustrates the perspective view of the integrated animaltraining device in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 16 illustrates the directing wheels of the integrated animaltraining device in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the confinement means in accordancewith the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the alternative integrated animaltraining device in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 19 illustrates the front and rear covering means in accordance withthe present invention.

FIG. 20 illustrates the mechanism providing displacing of the convexstructures with respect to the lateral coverages in accordance with thepresent invention.

FIG. 21 illustrates the magnetic-based structure disposed in the lateralcoverages in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION

FIG. 1 illustrates the perspective view of the animal training device inaccordance with the present invention. According to FIG. 1, the animalplaced in the device is secured therein from four different location ofthe body. In this embodiment, bit connection means (1) connects the bit(25) from the mouth region of the animal to the lateral coverage (15);bridle connection means (2) connects the bridle (24) from the headregion of the animal to the lateral coverage (15); chest band connectionmeans (3) connects the chest band (23) from the chest region of theanimal to the lateral coverage (15) are seen. The connection meansmentioned above are placed symmetrically to the lateral coverage (15).Another connection means is the saddle connection means (4) connectedfrom one end to the saddle (16) and connected from other end to theconvex structures (7). This last connection means facilitates the animalto be suspended in the training device in case the animal totters orfalls down.

The convex structure (7) surrounding the upper side of the trainingdevice has legs positioned to the lateral sides of the training device,which further includes, at the upper most region, a drum (5) and a motor(6) driving this drum (5). In the event of tottering or falling down ofthe animal, the force coming out as result of the mass of the animalcaused by the gravity is interpreted by a sensor located at the drum (5)and accordingly, the drum is driven by the motor (6) and the animal islifted in upwards direction by the saddle connection means (4) attachedto the saddle via a ring (22) on the saddle (16).

Another function related to the motor (6) and the drum (5) is that oncethe animal is positioned in the training device, the verticaldisplacement of the saddle (16) is adjusted by means of this motor (6)and the drum (5). For achieving this goal, the saddle (16) is moved bythe rotating the drum (5) via the motor (6), and the saddle (16) ispositioned on the animal. The displacement extent of the saddle (16) isdetermined by a locking means (not illustrated in the Figure) placed onthe drum (5).

The saddle (16) material may be made of silicon, rubber, plastic-basedmaterial and for achieving the simulation conditions with respect to thereal racing conditions, and some load between 10 kg. to 70 kg. may beattached to the saddle (16).

Achievement of relative motion of the animal with respect to thetraining device, thereby facilitating a flexible interaction between theanimal and the training device, involves several cordons located throughthe lateral coverages (15). Each cordon is connected from one end torespective bit connection means (1), bridle connection means (2), andchest band connection means (3). The connection point between thecordons and the connection means is the openings of the lateral coveragefor the connection means. As it is seen in the FIG. 1, bit cordon (19)is attached to the bit connection means (1), bridle cordon (20) isattached to the bridle connection means (2), and chest band cordon (21)is attached to the chest band connection means (3). These cordons(19,20,21) are connected to springs, one ends of which are connected tothe fixed body.

As seen in the FIG. 1, the bit cordon (19) is connected to the bitspring (11); the bridle cordon (20) is connected to the bridle spring(12); and the chest band cordon (21) is connected to the chest bandspring (13). The stiffness coefficients of the springs (11,12,13) aredifferent with respect to each other. The idea of embodying differentsprings having stiffness coefficients is to prevent the animal in thedevice to hurt himself as a result of relative movements in the device.

According to this idea, the stiffness coefficients of the springs can bearranged in the following order: chest band spring (13)>bridle spring(12)>bit spring (11).

In the scope of the present invention, some components have beendesigned to prevent the animal from hurting himself in the trainingdevice. The backside of the training device corresponding to the rearlegs of the animal is curved and covered by a flexible material. Thecurved backside (9) is then joined to the lateral sides (15) of thetraining device.

Another precautionary feature is a blockage part (8) having partiallyclosed formation and placed between the lateral coverages (15) andconvex structure (7). This blockage part (8) is covered by a flexiblematerial.

A movable locator (10) is placed at the rear section of the trainingdevice for preventing the location alterations of the animal in thedevice, particularly at the initiation and termination periods of thetraining. The movable locator (10) is driven by a pushing means (14)which is run by hydraulic mechanism in forward and backward directionsas shown in the FIG. 1. The movable locator can be placed at the frontside of the training device (not shown in the Figure), whereby theanimal in the device can be held at a predetermined position therein.

In the FIG. 2A, pre-training facility is shown for facilitatingpre-training before initiating essential training program. The object ofemploying such a pre-training facility is to adapt the animals to theessential training program. The pre-training facility comprises staticand dynamic elements. The static elements comprises upper guides (26)arranged throughout the course in which wheels, pulleys can be moved;and frames (29) covering the other static elements throughout the courseand arranged by predetermined spaces. The frames (29) having a convexstructure comprise a frame upper element (30) having a curved formationand a frame bottom element (31). Furthermore, lateral guides (32) forguiding movable connection means are connected at one end to the animaland at the other end to the lateral guides (32). The lateral guides (32)are fixed to the ground via legs (33).

The dynamic elements in the scope of the present invention arecharacterized as follows. Similar to the animal training device, bitconnection means (1) are connected from one end to the bit at the mouthregion of the animal, and connected from other end to the wheels (35)moved on the lateral guides (32); bridle connection means (2) areconnected from one end to the bridle at the head region of the animal,and connected from other end to the wheels (35) moved on the lateralguides (32). The animal subjected to the pre-training session issurrounded by plates (34) from the sides. Moving mechanism of the plates(34) is carried out by plate holders (28) connected to the wheels (27)moving in the upper guide (26). In addition to these technical features,the saddle (16) positioned on the animal is connected to the wheel (27)by saddle connection means (4).

Moving mechanism of the wheels (27), to which the plates (34) and thesaddle (16) are connected, is provided by a motor (36) connectedthereto.

The dynamic elements employed for pre-training session can be structuredindividually or as a group, in which case multiple training of theanimals is then achieved. In the event of multiple pre-trainingfacility, the moving of the wheels (27) can be achieved by employing asingle motor (36) for each wheel (27), or alternatively, one singletraction motor can be used for all wheels. In this way, rigid means canbe employed between each plate pair for pulling thereof by a singletraction motor.

In FIG. 2B, an alternative construction for the pre-training facilityhaving mechanical connection means is shown. In this alternativestructure, bit connection means (1) and bridle connection means (2) arefixed to the plates (34), and plate holders (28) are not connected tothe wheels (27). Only the saddle connection means (4) is positioned onthe saddle (16). Furthermore, the motor (36) actuating the system is notpositioned in the upper guide (26) region. As seen in the FIG. 2B, themotor (36) is located to the lateral sides of the plates (34). The motor(36) is moved with the plates (34) by means of wheels disposed in thelateral guides (32).

The other plate (34), to which the motor (36) is not connected, isassociated with the other lateral guides (32) via wheels.

Two embodiments of the instant invention are proposed. In FIG. 7, therear side (coverage) (45) of the training device is opened by rotatingaround a joint (47) disposed in the lateral coverage of the trainingdevice. Therefore, the training device comprises a fixed front coverage(46) and a rear coverage (45), which can be opened. The opening motionof the rear coverage (45) is performed by an actuator and a hydrauliccylinder-piston mechanism (48). One end of the cylinder-piston mechanism(48) is fixed to the front coverage (46) and the other end is fixed tothe rear coverage (45), which can be opened and closed. The rearcoverage (45) and the front coverage are combined in an interface plane(52). There is a front blockage housing (49) fixed to the front coverage(46) side. In this front blockage housing (49), a front blockage element(50) is disposed, whereby a barrier is formed in front of the 15 animalin case of necessity. As seen in the FIG. 7, the front blockage element(50) is actuated preferably by a hydraulic-piston cylinder mechanism(51) for displacing the element (50).

In FIG. 8, air bags (53) for positioning the animal in the trainingdevice are illustrated. The air bags (53) are disposed in the lateralcoverages of the device. Air is compressed by a compressor (55) andpassed through the connection pipe (56). Afterwards the air isintroduced into the air passages by air intake opening (57) and the airbags are blown up towards the outside. Consequently, the animal is heldat a determined position in the device.

An alternative structure is seen in the FIG. 3 for moving the trainingdevices. According to the FIG. 3 the moving mechanism comprises a mobileplatform (41) and an actuator gear wheel (38) driven by a motor (37) forthe platform. As seen in the FIG. 4A, the mobile platform (41) haspreferably a U profile and at the bottom side mobile platform teeth (40)are formed. These teeth are in contact with the actuating teeth (39) sothat displacement of platform is performed. Since the training coursecomprises curved sections, the mobile platform (41) includes pluralityof pieces for rotating when the curved sections are being turned.

As the training devices are fixed to the pieces, turning of the devicesis achieved as the mobile platform pieces are turned around the curvedsections. The mobile platform (41) can be driven with more than oneactuator gear wheel (38) or one single actuator gear wheel (38).

In FIG. 4A, the detailed view is given of the mobile platform (41). Inorder to provide a predetermined trajectory of the mobile platform (41),it should be guided accordingly. To achieve this, grooves (43) areformed in the inner lateral planes of the mobile platforms (41) having Ushape. In these grooves (43) rotatable means like wheels (44) aredisposed. The wheels (44) are fixed to the ground via holders (42).

In FIG. 4B, chain mechanism is illustrated for attaching the trainingdevices to each other. In this chain mechanism, the following areprovided: a column (58) situated on the mobile platform (41); pins (60)embodied in the upper region of the columns (58); and wheels (59)disposed between the pins (60). The wheels (59) are capable of moving inthe rail located throughout the training course. The chains (61) arepositioned between the mobile platforms (41). The mobile platform (41)is moved by a gear mechanism.

In FIG. 5, an actuation mechanism is illustrated for the trainingdevices throughout the training course. According to the FIG. 5, wheels(82) movable in rail by means of motors (81) are seen. Training devicescan be driven by a plurality of motors connected to each wheel, oralternatively devices can be driven by one single motor, which iscoupled to one pulling training device. For the latter case, the othertraining devices are connected to each other by some rigid mechanicalcomponents like chains.

Similar embodiment is shown in the FIG. 6. In this FIG. 6, trainingdevices are moved by wheels (82) positioned at upper side thereof anddriven in rail. Each training device can be moved by a motor coupled toeach wheel, or alternatively there can be only one dedicated pullingdevice employed for drive driving the other training devices by a motorconnected to the wheel of the pulling device. For the latter case, theother training devices are connected to each other by some rigidmechanical components like chains.

In FIG. 9, a closed-form training device is illustrated. The closed-formtraining device is designed to close the lateral and upper sidesthereof. In FIG. 9, a mobile laboratory (63) device is attached at therear section of the training device. In other words, the training deviceand the laboratory unit (63) form a closed-form mobile unit (66). A lid(78) is embodied in front of the mobile unit (66) the lateral, rear andupper side are closed. The lid (78) is capable of moving downwards andupwards by virtue of hinges (79). Furthermore, an opening (80) is formedin front side of the lid (78) so that the head of the animal can beprojected.

The training device is driven by a motor (64) e.g., an internalcombustion engine, and moved on the wheels (65) as seen in the FIG. 10.In order to monitor the EKG of the animal being trained, some electrodemeans (69) are positioned on the body of the animal. Signals obtainedfrom the electrode means (69) are transmitted by EKG cables (70) to theEKG device (67) in the laboratory (63) and can be printed out. Inaddition to that, the signals obtained from the EKG device (67) aretransmitted to the computer (68) and can be stored in this computer (68)for retrieval any time. The computer (68) can be located anywhere otherthan the training device.

During training or following the training session, a needle means (71)is positioned on the body of the animal for receiving blood samples fromthe animal. The received blood sample can be accumulated in a tub (72).As it seen in the FIG. 9, the received blood sample is transmitted toblood test analyzer (73), and the data obtained from analysis can bestored in the computer (68) for retrieval any time.

In order to observe the conditions of the stomach, bronchus and nose ofthe animal just after the training session, endoscopic elements (74) arelocated in the mobile laboratory. The data obtained from the endoscopicelement can be stored in the computer (68) for retrieval at any time.

In order to observe respiration conditions of the animal duringtraining, a respiration meter (75) is positioned near the nose region ofthe animal. The data obtained from the respiration of the animal can bestored in the computer (68) for retrieval at any time.

The animal subjected to training is observed in terms of bodytemperature changes during the training by means of thermometers (76)located at various regions of the body. The data obtained from thethermometers can be stored in the computer (68) for retrieval at anytime.

Dynamic analysis of the animal being trained is performed by radioscopicmeans such as cameras (77) positioned at various regions of the trainingdevice. The data obtained from radioscopic means can be stored in thecomputer (68) for retrieval at any time.

The computer (68) mentioned above for storing the results of analysiscan be located in the training devices or alternatively in any fixedregion as a main frame computer.

FIG. 11 illustrates electronic displacement controlled connection means.According to the figure, the animal in the training device is connectedto the device from three different locations, i.e., by bit connectionmeans (1), bridle connection means (2) and chest band connection means(3). The other connection means is the saddle holder (17) surroundingthe body of the animal. The saddle (16) is connected to a middle slidingmeans (88) structured between two convex structures (7) by means of asaddle connection means (4) as seen in the FIG. 11.

The motors (84,85,86) controlling the animal during training arepositioned axially on the side sliding means (87,89), which are embodiedbetween the convex structures (7). Axial movement of the motors(84,85,86) facilitates the stretching and loosening of the connectionmeans (1,2,3) and then the animal is controlled according to thetraining conditions.

In accordance with the present invention, the movement of the motors(84,85,86) placed on the side sliding means (87,89) is achieved by anelectronic control unit (91) providing real-time racing conditions. Forexample, in real-time racing conditions, e.g., in the first 1000 m., theconnection means (1,2,3) are relatively stretched and particularly inthe last distances towards the finish the connection means (1,2,3) arerelatively loosened. Therefore, considering the real race distances suchas 2400 m. the animal is controlled by stretching and loosening theconnection means (1,2,3) by virtue of motors (84,85,86) actuated by theelectronic control unit (91). Displacement amount of the motors(84,85,86) is achieved by coding the distance data into the electroniccontrol unit (91). Furthermore, the electronic control unit (91) is aprogrammable unit so that the training conditions may be alteredaccording to training distance. The electronic control unit (91) can bealternatively placed anywhere other than the training device.

In FIG. 12A, the saddle (16) having six degree of freedom is viewed.This saddle (16) is connected to the middle sliding means (88) by saddleconnection means (4). According to the figure, a saddle bear (92) isengaged to the middle sliding means (88), and in the saddle bear (92) anupper spherical joint (93) pivotable in the perpendicular directions isdisposed. At the bottom region of the upper spherical joint (93), afixed cylinder (95) is located and a movable cylinder (96) capable ofdisplacing in this fixed cylinder (95) is placed. A spring (100) isdisposed in the fixed cylinder (95) for damping sudden forcesoriginating from the animal.

A lower spherical joint (94) is placed at the connection point of themovable cylinder (96) and the saddle (16), whereby the saddle (16) iscapable of pivoting in three perpendicular directions. In the fixedcylinder (95), some hydraulic fluid is accumulated for providing dampingeffect for the movable cylinder (96).

In case of variation in the animal position in the training device, thesaddle (16) and the cylinders (95,96) are displaced to the positionshown by dashed lines as in FIG. 12A. For more flexible structures, thenumber of cylinders can be increased.

In FIG. 12B, the top view of saddle bear (92) is illustrated. As seen inthe figure, displacement of the upper spherical joint (93) is restrictedby an obstruction part (99). The obstruction part (99) has a U shape andcomprises an aperture (97). The upper spherical joint (93) is capable ofmoving in a housing (98). In the figure, the dashed lines correspond tothe position of the dashed lines in FIG. 12A.

In FIG. 13, lateral coverages (15) of the training device are shown. Inthis alternative embodiment, the lateral coverages (15) are displacedvia several actuation means. For moving the coverages (15) in the axialdirection, an axial actuation means (101), in the width direction anhorizontal actuation means (103), and in the vertical direction avertical actuation means (102), are embodied. These actuation means(101,102,103) are connected to the lateral coverages (15) and can beboth manually and electronically controlled. In FIG. 13, thedisplacement extent of the lateral coverages (15) is zero and once thelateral coverages (15) are moved the displacement will be gained withrespect to the interfaces (106).

FIG. 14 illustrates the coupling of lateral coverages capable of beingintroduced one within the other. This construction provides a flexiblestructure in the case of animal kicking the lateral coverages (15).According to the figure, an outer coverage (104) and an inner coverage(105) movable in the outer coverage (104) are embodied. For penetrationof the inner coverage (104) into the outer coverage (105), a housing(107) is positioned to the outer coverage (104) and a slipway ispositioned to the inner coverage (105), so that the slipway (108) can bepenetrated into the housing (107).

As seen in the FIG. 14, a spring element (109) is placed between theouter coverage (104) and inner coverage (105). The spring (109)comprises an outer leg (111) attached to the outer coverage (104) and aninner leg (112) attached to the inner coverage (105). These legs (111,112) are connected by a pivot (110) and a middle spring (90) is disposedbetween these legs (111,112).

FIG. 15 illustrates the perspective view of the integrated animaltraining device. According to the figure, a rear unit (124) isintegrated with the coverages through an intermediary part (123). Aself-powered motor (121) is placed onto the rear unit (124). Rotationalmovement originated from the self-powered motor (121) is transmitted torear wheels (122) by differential mechanism.

Guidance of the integrated animal training device is provided by frontwheels (113). Changing the direction of the front wheels (113) isachieved by hydraulic supplied from the self-powered motor (121).Hydraulic is pumped by the self-powered motor (121) and transported by apipe (120) to a valve (118) located under the steering wheel (119).

As the steering wheel is turned, a pivot connected to the steering wheel(119) directs the hydraulic through valve channels, and then thehydraulic is transmitted by primary hydraulic line (117) or secondaryhydraulic line (125) to the appropriate piston (116) chamber. The piston(116) is placed at substantially upper part of the convex structure (7)and on a piston-actuating pivot (126) for actuating this pivot.

As seen in the FIG. 15, the primary and secondary hydraulic lines(117,125) are connected to two separate chambers in which cylinders ofthe piston (116) are disposed. Once the valve (118) is directed throughthe steering wheel (119), hydraulic is accumulated into one of thesechambers of the piston (116) whereby the piston (116) actuates thepiston-actuating pivot (126) linearly in horizontal direction.

As illustrated in FIG. 16, as the piston-actuating pivot (126) is moved,an upper connecting rod (127) is actuated accordingly. For structuralintegrity, an actuator pivot bearing (129) is placed between thepiston-actuating pivot (126) and the upper connecting rod (127). Themovement is further transmitted to a rotary pivot (114) connected fromone side to the upper connecting rod (127) and placed in verticaldirection. For supporting the structure, a beam (128) is embodied at thejunction point of the upper connecting rods (127) and the rotary pivots(114), parallel to the piston (116). Rotary motion of the rotary pivots(114) is transmitted to lower connecting rods (132) through lowerconnecting rod bearings (131) and the motion is further transmitted todirection arms (115) connected at one end to the front wheels (113) andconnected at other end to lower connecting rods (132). Similarly, forstructural integrity, a direction arm bearing (133) is placed betweenthe direction arm (115) and the lower connecting rod (132). Since thedirection arms (115) are placed relatively distant from the front wheel(113) centers, directing the front wheels (113) is achieved simply.

Front wheels (113) directing mechanism is mounted at upper side, i.e.,alongside the convex structures (7), such that the animal to be trainedcan be introduced into and leave the training device.

FIG. 17 illustrates the perspective view of the confinement means orbarrier part in accordance with the present invention. In case theanimal is frightened, the barrier part (135) prevents the animal to goinside the training device. The barrier part is secured to the lateralcoverages through holder pieces (134) which are preferablyhydraulic-based pistons.

The barrier part is in contact with the backside of the animal onceintroduced into the animal device. Since the barrier part is in contactwith the animal directly, it is made of flexible material, andfurthermore, in order to enhance the flexibility thereof, spring meanscan be attached thereto.

A harrow (136) is placed at the backside of the integrated animaltraining device for smoothing the ground as the training device moves onthe ground. The harrow can be lifted up or down by a harrow piston(137).

FIG. 18 illustrates the perspective view of the alternative integratedanimal training device. According to the figure, as the steering wheel(119) is turned, the steering beam (145) connected to the steering wheel(119) from one end and connected to the valve (118) from other end, lockor unlock the channels in the valve (118) so that the hydraulic isdirected in the desired direction. The valve comprises four openings,two of which are used to feed the hydraulic into the piston (116),ultimately providing direction change of the front wheels. The thirdopening is embodied for transmitting the hydraulic from hydraulicstorage to the valve (118) by virtue of a feeding hydraulic line (143),and the fourth one is embodied for evacuating the excess hydraulic tothe hydraulic storage by virtue of an evacuation hydraulic line (144).

As seen in the FIG. 18, the piston is fed with hydraulic from a righthydraulic line (141) and a left hydraulic line (142). Depending on thecoming hydraulic, i.e., from right or left line, a piston arm (138)connected to the piston (116) is displaced in forward or backwarddirections. Since the piston arm (138) is rigidly attached to adirecting beam (140), as the piston arm (138) is displaced accordinglythe directing beam (140) is displaced in horizontal direction. Forstructural integrity, the directing beam (140) is supported by an outerhousing (146), whereby the directing beam (140) is movable in the outerhousing (146). Since the form of the directing beam (140) comprises ahorizontal and a vertical component, i.e., “T” like shape, horizontaldisplacement extent of the directing beam (140) is determined by thevertical component movable through displacement opening (147) formed inthe outer housing (146).

The directing beam (140) movable in the horizontal direction byactuation of the piston (116) is attached to a curved bar (149) byvirtue of a middle connection (148). This curved bar (149) is disposedin the lateral coverages (15). Once the piston (116) actuates thedirecting beam (140), the curved bar (149) is moved and transfers itsmotion to a straight bar (150). Accordingly, the straight bar (150)transfers the motion to a connecting rod (151) further connected to avertical beam (152) from the other end. Consequently, a direction arm(115) connected from one end to the vertical beam (152) and connectedfrom other end to the front wheel (113) transfers the motion to thefront wheel (113).

The above-mentioned components including piston (116), valve (118),directing beam (140), and outer housing (146) are covered by aprotective lid (153) for preventing external effects.

FIG. 19 illustrates the front and rear covering means in accordance withthe present invention. Once the animal is placed in the training device,the front and rear regions of the animal are enclosed by means ofcovering means (178). The mechanism driving these covering means (178)is seen in the figure. Two pivots (156,157) are fixed vertically to theconvex structure legs (155) through upper bearings (160) and lowerbearings (161). One of the pivots, actuator pivot (156), is a screwedpivot and actuated by a motor (168) at the bottom side. The motor (168)is an electric-based motor, however it may be driven by energy providedfrom the self-powered motor.

An actuation ring (158) is annularly placed on the actuator pivot (156).As the actuator pivot (156) is rotated, the actuation ring (158) isdisplaced in upwards or downwards directions. Alongside the actuatorpivot (156), a support pivot (157) is placed so that the gravity forceof the covering means (178) is met by the support pivot (157).Similarly, a support ring (159) connected rigidly to the actuator ring(158) is annularly placed to the support pivot (157), and is capable ofbeing displaced in upwards and downwards directions.

An actuator ring arm (165) is fixed from one end to the actuator ringand pined from the other end to a wheel arm (164). The wheel arm isfurther pined from the other end to the center of a wheel (163) movingon a follower (162) comprising an eccentric pivot combination. A supportring arm (166) is pined from one end to the center of the wheel (163)and connected from other end to a holder arm (167) that is pined tofixed arm (179) connected to support ring (159).

The covering means (178) is driven as described below:

Once the actuator pivot (156) is rotated by the motor (168), theactuation ring (158) is displaced in vertical direction. In the meantime, the wheel (163) associated with the actuation ring (158) is movingon the follower (162) comprising eccentric pivot combination. As thewheel (163) is moving on the lower pivot of the eccentric pivotcombination, the support ring arm (166) shifts its position and thecovering means (178) connected to the support ring arm (166) shifts itsposition accordingly. Once the actuation ring (158) displaces to acertain point, the covering means (178) completely covers the front sideof the animal.

Similar covering movement applies to when the actuation ring (158) moveson the upper pivot of the eccentric pivot combination. Once theactuation ring (158) displaces to a certain point, the covering means(178) is completely lifted and the front side of the animal is opened.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the above mentioned coveringmeans (178) mechanism is assembled alongside the other leg of the convexstructures so that the rear side of the animal is closed or opened.

Air bags are provided in the covering means (178) so that the positionof the animal can be controlled. These air bags can be inflated asdesired to confine the position of the animal.

FIG. 20 illustrates the mechanism providing displacing of the convexstructures with respect to the lateral coverages in accordance with thepresent invention. As seen from the figure, convex structure legs (155)are capable of moving in the lateral coverages (15) through thedisplacement opening (173). The convex structure legs (155) areconnected to horizontal sledges (170) disposed in the lateral coverages(15).

The horizontal sledges (170) are driven by a sledge motor (172), and asledge spring (178) is provided between the sledge motor (172) and thehorizontal sledge (170). As the sledges (170) are driven by the sledgemotor (172), the convex structure legs (155) connected to the sledges(170) move accordingly.

FIG. 21 illustrates the magnetic-based structure disposed in the lateralcoverages in accordance with the present invention. Housings (174), inwhich electromagnets (175) are disposed, are formed at inner sides ofthe lateral coverages (15). A rod (177) capable of moving in the housing(174) and holding a ring (176) is embodied in the housing (174). Thisring (176) is connected to the saddle (16) on the animal. Adjustablemagnetic force provided by the electromagnet renders the ring (176) todisplace any desired amount in the housing (174).

1. An automated training system for an animal, comprising: a trainingdevice having lateral and rear sides covered by flexible material, atleast one convex structure extending over the top of the trainingdevice, and legs positioned on the lateral sides of the training device;a motorized unit for propelling the training device, the motorized unitbeing positioned one of in front and rear of the training device, themotorized unit having a steering wheel; a valve controlled by thesteering wheel, said valve having a plurality of openings for hydraulicflow; a directing beam; a piston directed by hydraulic flow, the pistonhaving a piston arm connected to the directing beam; curved barssymmetrically connected to the directing beam; connecting rods; straightbars connected between the curved bars and the connecting rods; verticalbeams connected to the connecting rods; front wheels; and direction armsconnected between the vertical beams and front wheels.
 2. The trainingsystem according to claim 1, further comprising: a hydraulic feedingline for connecting a hydraulic storage and the valve; a hydraulicevacuation line for connecting the hydraulic storage and the valve; anda right hydraulic line and a left hydraulic line for directing hydraulicfrom the valve to the piston.
 3. The training system according to claim1, wherein said directing beam has a T shape and the piston arm isconnected to vertical part of the T-shaped directing beam.
 4. Thetraining system according to claim 3, wherein an outer housing forsupporting the directing beam is provided and the vertical part of theT-shaped directing beam is adapted to be displaced in a displacementopening of the outer housing.
 5. The training system according to claim2, wherein said directing beam is disposed in the rear side and saidcurved bars and straight bars are disposed in the lateral sides.
 6. Thetraining system according to claim 3, wherein a protective lid movableone of upwards and downwards for covering said piston and said directingbeam is provided.
 7. The training system according to claim 1, whereinat least one screwed actuator pivot and at least one support pivot arelocated alongside legs of the convex structure.
 8. The training systemaccording to claim 7, wherein an actuation ring movable through the axisof the actuator pivot is provided, and a support ring connected to theactuation ring and movable through the axis of the support pivot isprovided.
 9. The training system according to claim 7, wherein a motoris positioned at a bottom side of the actuator pivot for rotating thepivot.
 10. The training system according to claim 8, wherein a wheel isconnected to the actuation ring through an actuator ring arm and a wheelarm.
 11. The training system according to claim 10, wherein an eccentricpivot combination is provided, and wherein the wheel connected to theactuation ring is movable on the eccentric pivot combination.
 12. Thetraining system according to claim 10, wherein a support ring arm pinedfrom one end to the wheel center and connected from other end to aholder arm is provided, and wherein the holder arm is pined to a fixedarm that is connected to the support ring.
 13. The training systemaccording to claim 12, wherein a covering means connected to the holderarm is provided.
 14. The training system according to claim 13, whereinthe covering means is provided for covering at least one of front andrear side of the animal in the training device.
 15. The training systemaccording to claim 13, wherein air bags are provided in the coveringmeans.
 16. The training system according to claim 13, wherein horizontalsledges associated with the legs of the convex structure are disposed inthe lateral sides.
 17. The training system according to claim 16,wherein a sledge spring connected between, the horizontal sledge and asledge motor is provided.
 18. The training system according to claim 1,wherein a displacement opening is formed in the lateral sides fordisplacing the legs of the convex structure.
 19. The training systemaccording to claim 1, wherein a housing is provided on the lateralsides, and wherein a magnet is disposed in the housing.
 20. The trainingsystem according to claim 19, wherein a rod movable in the housing isprovided, and wherein a ring connected to the rod and the saddle isprovided.
 21. The training system according to claim 20, wherein saidring is adapted to be moved by a magnetic force provided by theelectromagnet.